Za’Darius Smith Net Worth and Retirement: 2025 Salary and Career Earnings Explained

Za’Darius Smith, one of the NFL’s most productive edge rushers of the past decade, has officially retired from football in 2025. The 33-year-old veteran stepped away from the game six weeks into the season after signing a one-year deal with the Philadelphia Eagles. His departure not only marks the end of an 11-year career but also draws attention to his final salary, total career earnings, and estimated net worth.

Smith’s journey from a late draft pick to one of the league’s top pass rushers highlights both his on-field impact and financial success. His career includes multiple Pro Bowl selections, significant contracts with several teams, and total NFL earnings approaching nine figures.

Za’Darius Smith’s 2025 Salary and Final NFL Contract

In 2025, Smith signed a one-year contract with the Philadelphia Eagles worth $4.25 million in base salary, including a $2.25 million signing bonus and additional incentives. He appeared in five games for Philadelphia before announcing his retirement in October, finishing with 1.5 sacks and several key pressures during his brief stint with the team.

This deal followed his 2024 season with the Cleveland Browns, where he earned a total of $12 million. That package included a $10.79 million signing bonus and a $1.21 million base salary. The Browns structured his deal to front-load guaranteed money, a common move for veteran players nearing the later stages of their careers.

Across his NFL career, Smith’s total cash earnings are estimated at more than $95 million. This figure includes salaries, bonuses, and incentives earned during his time with the Baltimore Ravens, Green Bay Packers, Minnesota Vikings, Cleveland Browns, Detroit Lions, and Philadelphia Eagles.

Za’Darius Smith’s Net Worth and Career Legacy

While Smith’s personal financial details remain private, estimates place his net worth in the range of $95 million to $100 million, largely driven by NFL salaries and endorsements. His earnings put him among the top-paid defensive ends of his era, reflecting both his production and value to multiple franchises.

Smith entered the league in 2015 as a fourth-round pick (122nd overall) by the Baltimore Ravens out of the University of Kentucky. He quickly established himself as a premier pass rusher, earning three Pro Bowl selections and a Second-Team All-Pro honor during his time with the Green Bay Packers. His best seasons came in 2019 and 2020, when he recorded a combined 26 sacks.

Beyond statistics, Smith’s leadership and locker-room presence were praised by teammates and coaches. He was known for his relentless motor, versatility across defensive fronts, and ability to deliver in critical moments — qualities that defined his decade-long career.

Impact of His Retirement on the Eagles and the NFL

Smith’s sudden retirement leaves the Philadelphia Eagles adjusting their defensive rotation midseason. The team is expected to rely more heavily on younger pass rushers and may explore trade or free-agent options to fill the void left by the veteran’s departure.

For the league, Smith’s retirement symbolizes the end of a notable era for one of the most consistent and respected defensive players of the 2010s and early 2020s. His career is often cited as a model of development — from junior college standout to Pro Bowl-caliber NFL star — and his financial success underscores the value of elite defensive talent in the modern game.

In summary, Za’Darius Smith retires as one of the NFL’s most accomplished edge rushers, with estimated career earnings approaching $100 million. His 2025 salary with the Eagles was $4.25 million, and his net worth places him among the wealthiest defensive players of his generation. His retirement closes a chapter defined by dominance, leadership, and financial success on and off the field.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What was Za’Darius Smith’s 2025 salary?

Smith earned $4.25 million on a one-year contract with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2025.

Q2: What is Za’Darius Smith’s net worth?

His estimated net worth is between $95 million and $100 million, based on career earnings and endorsements.

Q3: Why did Za’Darius Smith retire?

Smith announced his retirement six weeks into the 2025 season. While no detailed reason was provided, it is believed to be a personal decision after 11 NFL seasons.

Q4: What were Za’Darius Smith’s career highlights?

He earned three Pro Bowl selections, a Second-Team All-Pro honor, and recorded over 70 career sacks.

Q5: Who is Za’Darius Smith’s agent?

He is represented by Erik Burkhardt of Roc Nation Sports.

Disclaimer: All net worth figures are estimates based on publicly available contract data and may not reflect actual personal finances.